Detroit Free Press Sports Writer

Detroit Red Wings' Drew Miller on the ice during an optional skate in Detroit on May 5, 2013. / Julian H. Gonzalez/DFP

CHICAGO — Jumping into a game after a one-month layoff is a challenge, but it’s the playoffs and Drew Miller was happy to make the leap.

Miller helped keep the Blackhawks thwarted through two power plays as Detroit pounded Chicago, 4-1, this afternoon at United Center, forcing a 1-1 tie headed into Game 3 Monday at Joe Louis Arena.

Miller topped 12 minutes despite not having played since April 20, when he suffered a broken thumb in a game at Vancouver. It’s not the worst injury to have because long before Miller regained strength in his right hand he was able to skate with his teammates, keeping his legs going. That helped as he made the transition from practice to performance, playing at even strength on the fourth line next to Cory Emmerton and Patrick Eaves.

“I felt good,” Miller said. “I think it’s one of those things, you feel comfortable going out there and you can’t play with caution, you’ve just got to go out and play your game.”

Miller was thrilled when he got hit by Chicago defenseman Brent Seabrook in the third period, thrilled because Miller’s hand held up just fine. Contact practices with teammates are one thing, contact games with playoff opponents, that’s the real deal.

Miller bumped Todd Bertuzzi from the lineup. Miller said after Friday’s practice he was a viable option, but the decision to play wasn’t final until after Saturday’s warm-ups. Coach Mike Babcock had no hesitation to insert Miller, though, because Miller added an instant dose of speed.

“I’ve got three penalty killers now on the fourth line,” Babcock said. “Millsie knows how to play in all positions and he can really skate and get on the forecheck. He’s not a big man but he’s got a great stick and knows how to play, and so he makes us a much better team.”

As hard as starting back up during the playoffs can be, there’s also an adrenaline rush that kicks in, ameliorating for some of the rust.

“It’s a fun time of year,” Miller said. “It was tough watching the first round and the first game there. You want to be in there. I got the opportunity to play today and like you said, you just have to go out there and play hard. I’ve been out about a month, but I’ve been skating for most of that time, so that was what helped me.”

Contact Helene St. James: 313-222-2295 or hstjames@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @helenestjames.